The month of August signals one thing for kids; summer is ending. This phrase ‘Back to School’ means more than just backpacks and books. Clean up days are held to involve the neighborhood in cleaning our local schools. This year McCall Elementary School in Society Hill will hold two clean up days before the start of school on September 9th. Monday August 19th (12-4:30pm and/or 5:30-9pm) and Tuesday August 27th (8am-12pm and/or 12:30-5pm and/or 5:30-9pm). Efforts will include light cleaning, outdoor gardening, floor refurbishing and more. Lunch and/or dinner will be provided for volunteers who participate all day. This is a great way to meet your neighbors and help kids stay healthy and safe.

McCall Elementary School
(Image Source: phillyliving.com)

The neighborhood may change but the issues remain the same. Funding for our schools has been a hot topic over the years. Especially the talk this year of budget cuts again. East Passyunk Crossing has created a committee of community members and parents to focus on supporting Southwark Elementary School through various projects like tutoring, fundraising and providing school supplies. They have implemented a campaign in order to raise funds for these kids. The EPX Back2School Campaign is urging our city to help these kids start their school year with a full backpack of supplies. Donating $10 gives a child crayons and markers. Donating $30 fills their backpack with all the supplies needed while $50 gives two school uniforms. 100% of these proceeds will go towards supplies and uniforms needed for children at Southwark Elementary School.